Grand Slam Track co-founder Michael Johnson has explained the removal of 5000m event from the series, alongside a decisive shift to a two-day competition format, following the successful Philadelphia Slam meet over the weekend.
Speaking after the conclusion of the third leg of the Grand Slam Track series, Johnson praised both the crowd and athletes for delivering what he described as “an amazing two days.”
“Philadelphia came out here. The crowds were amazing both days. They were energized, and I think it just showed in how our athletes performed,” Johnson said.
The change from a three-day format used in Kingston and Miami to a more compact two-day schedule. According to Johnson, brought increased intensity and a better overall experience for athletes and fans.
“It just feels better. It’s more action-packed. The athletes liked it better, fans enjoyed it, and we got great crowds on both Saturday and Sunday,” he noted.
Reason for Dropping the 5000m
One of the most notable adjustments made ahead of the Philadelphia leg was the removal of the 5000m event. It was replaced by the 3000m. Johnson said the decision came after internal reviews. A feedback revealed a lack of intensity in the longer-distance races compared to the rest of the program.
“You just have to watch them—it’s glaring. Most of our races end with fans on their feet. That wasn’t always happening with the 5000m,” Johnson explained.
Not only was the 5000m replaced, but the prize money was halved for the long-distance category. Johnson, however, insisted that the two 3000m races in Philadelphia were among the weekend’s highlights, validating the changes.
Known for its innovative approach to the sport, Grand Slam Track’s ability to iterate quickly has become a hallmark. Michael Johnson emphasized that the changes—both the dropped event and shortened schedule—were already being considered before the season began.
“We’ve got a lot of ideas shelved, and the 3000m-only format and two-day schedule were always possibilities,” he said. “Why wait until next season? Let’s do it now.”
He also confirmed that the Los Angeles Slam, the next stop in the series, will follow the same two-day structure.
“L.A. will be two days. We’re not afraid to make changes or even make mistakes. We move fast when everyone agrees it’s the right decision.”
Despite concerns about using a 125-year-old venue, Johnson commended his team and local partners for smooth logistics throughout the weekend.
“The indoor warm-up facility worked well, athletes got to the start line on time, and the races went off without a hitch. That’s a huge priority for us,” he said.
Asked whether Philadelphia will return as a regular stop on the Grand Slam Track calendar, Johnson left the door open.
“It feels like it. It was an epic two days. It would be hard not to, to be honest,” he said, though he added that a final decision would come after the season ends.
